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Semin Neurol 2009; 29(3): 234-246
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1223875
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Somatoform Disorders

W. Curt LaFrance1
  • 1Division of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology, Brown Medical School/Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
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Publication History

Publication Date:
23 June 2009 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The fields of neurology and psychiatry were originally practiced as a unitary model. As the fields dichotomized patients into “organic” and “functional,” patients with medically unexplained symptoms fell between the borderlands. Despite their significant prevalence, somatoform disorders (SDs) are grossly under-recognized and lack effective treatments. This article reviews diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses, examination findings, and treatments for these disorders. A summary of advances in research in functional neuroimaging and treatment trials is also given.

KEYWORDS

Somatoform disorders - conversion disorders - examination - diagnosis - treatment

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W. Curt LaFranceJr. M.D. M.P.H. 

Director of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology, Rhode Island Hospital

593 Eddy Street, Potter 3, Providence, RI 02903

Email: William_LaFrance_Jr@brown.edu